Scrutiny Begins: Parliament Approves Committee to Vet President’s Ministerial Nominees
First Deputy Speaker takes charge of the powerful committee tasked with vetting top nominees
- Chaired by Bernard Ahiafor, with Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah as Vice Chair and Alexander Afenyo-Markin as Ranking Member
- Responsible for vetting President Mahama’s ministerial nominees and other top government appointments
- Approved by Parliament with a vote ratio of 183 to 88, signaling strong backing for the committee's formation
Parliament has officially approved the formation of its Appointments Committee, a key group responsible for vetting and recommending individuals for high-level government positions, including ministers and their deputies.
The committee will be chaired by First Deputy Speaker Bernard Ahiafor, with Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah appointed as Vice Chairperson. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, the Minority Leader, will serve as the Ranking Member, and Patricia Appiagyei will take on the role of Deputy Ranking Member.
Role of the Appointments Committee
This influential committee ensures that nominees proposed by the President for critical positions are carefully examined and vetted before receiving parliamentary approval. Its work is guided by the Constitution and relevant laws.
Leadership’s Confidence in the Committee
During a parliamentary session on January 8, 2025, Majority Leader Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson emphasized the importance of the committee’s work, stating, “The committee respectfully recommends to the House to adopt this report and approve the membership of the Appointments and Business Committees as composed, based on the ratio of 183 to 88.”
With the committee now in place, Parliament is poised to begin the crucial task of scrutinizing nominees, ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the process.
The committee’s efforts will play a significant role in shaping the leadership team that will support President Mahama’s agenda for his new term.
